By exploring the enigmatic theory of how neurons transmit signals, scientists have proven that they will one day be able to make computer chips with nearly zero electrical resistance.
Between “order and chaos”, researchers are increasingly closer to making computer chips work like the human brain.
On the sidelines of a study in the magazine Nature On September 11th, a group of scientists created conditions in the “limit of chaos”.
The “edge of chaos” is a transition point “between order and disorder” that allows the rapid transmission of information, on an electronic device.
This discovery can simplify and increase the efficiency of future chips computer by emulating the functionality of superconductors.
As explained by , in the human brain, each neuron has an axon that transmits electrical signals without the need for external amplification. That is, the axons operate at the edge of chaos to self-amplify signals.
Taking inspiration from this, the researchers replicated this behavior in a non-biological system using lanthanum cobaltite (LaCoO3). By applying the appropriate current to this material, they were able to amplify small voltage fluctuations.
This method differs from conventional electronics, where part of the energy is lost in the form of heat, whereas here contributes to signal amplification.
Experts theorize that this approach could eliminate the need for thousands of repeaters and buffers on chips, reducing their complexity and improving energy efficiency.
The study authors suggest that this new method could allow a behavior similar to that of superconductors under normal temperature and pressure conditions, revolutionizing computer chip technology.
